Frequently Asked Questions

- General Facts   - StoneSelect   - Care & Maintenance   - Natural Quartz    - Ordering/Technical

1. How is Granite formed?
   Granite is an igneous rock of visible crystalline formation and texture. It is composed primarily of feldspar, quartz, and mica. It starts off as liquid magma deep within the earths core where it is cooled and compressed over millions of years under tons of pressure. It is then quarried, cut and polished. After that process it can be applied in various ways like kitchen countertops, vanity tops, fireplace surrounds as well as Jacuzzi surrounds and other custom designs.



2. What should you be paying for when buying Granite?
   * Quality stone
   * A job that fits well as a result of accurate templating and a good installation.
   * Highly polished, straight edges.
   * Timely installation, no hassles, quick response to situations.



3. Is Granite a completely smooth surface like other Solid Surface Materials?
   No. Many Granite contain pits and fissures that are natural characteristics of granite. Some Granites exhibit these characteristics more than others, and the lighting of the room can make these marks more or less visible. These characteristics should be pointed out to the client prior to deciding on a particular material and pre-approval of the actual slab is recommended.



4. Is it okay for the homeowners to stand on the tops if they need to reach a high place?
   Though it is unlikely that this would cause a problem, we strongly recommend against standing on granite countertops.



5. How much does Granite weigh?
   3cm granite weighs approximately 21lbs. per square foot and 2cm granite weighs approximately 15lbs. per square foot. Granites are easily supported by standard floor and cabinet systems.



6. What is the thickness of the granite used on my countertop?
   All or our granite is available in 3cm (approximately 1 3/16") thickness. We recommend using the 3cm because its structural integrity is superior and it is aesthetically more pleasing than the thinner stones.



7. My little sample of Granite has pits on the surface -- will I have these on my kitchen counters?
   Granite, which is crystalline in structure, always has tiny pits -- spaces between the various mineral crystals. You don't see them on a larger piece because the overall appearance is polished and mirror-like. Granite sometimes has natural fissures as well, which may look like cracks, but are not structural defects and are a naturally occurring result of the immense heat and pressure which formed the granite eons ago. These characteristics are part of the natural beauty of stone and will not impair the function or durability of the material. A product of nature cannot be expected to look manmade.



8. Will my Granite look like the online sample?
   The samples you see on the computer have been scanned and saved as digital images. The color tones may not be absolutely correct due to variations in computer systems, monitors and compression algorithms. Also, granite is a natural material with naturally occurring variations in color, tone, granularity, pattern, etc. These variations are expected and are the source of its natural beauty.



9. Can Granite crack?
   Yes. However, granite is most susceptible to cracks during shipping and installation. Normal use should not overstress this durable material.



10. Where do you operate?
    Apex Surfaces, Inc. operates within the tri-state area. We are approximately 40 minutes north of Pittsburgh, PA. We are a direct fabricator and installer of kitchen countertops, vanities, jacuzzi surrounds, fireplace surrounds, and custom designs.